Effects of applying the A+S methodology on the development of physical fitness in older people
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v82.119152Keywords:
Physical activity , service-learning, functional physical fitness, higher education, older adultsAbstract
Introduction: Population aging in Chile highlights the need to develop strategies that promote active aging and the training of professionals committed to health promotion and the quality of life of older adults.
Objective: To evaluate the effects of a physical activity program implemented through the Service-Learning (S-L) methodology by Physical Education Pedagogy students from Universidad Central de Chile.
Methodology: A quasi-experimental study with a single-group pretest–posttest design and qualitative interpretative support was conducted. Participants included 41 older adults and 15 Physical Education Pedagogy students. Physical fitness was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test battery. In addition, a survey was administered to students and semi-structured interviews were conducted with older adults. The intervention was carried out between March and November 2024 and included 18 sessions of 120 minutes each.
Results: Significant improvements were observed in lower-body strength, upper-body strength, aerobic endurance, and dynamic balance (p < .05). Ninety-five percent of participants improved in at least one functional variable assessed, and 100% of students reported that the experience contributed to the development of professional skills.
Discussion: The findings are consistent with the existing evidence on multicomponent physical exercise programs for older adults, highlighting the value of Service-Learning as a bidirectional strategy that integrates functional, social, and educational benefits.
Conclusions: Physical activity programs implemented through Service-Learning contribute to the well-being of older adults and to the professional training of future teachers.
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